One of the more remote but nearly all enviable places to go to on Scotland’s mainland is definitely the magnificent North Coast 500, aka the NC500. Rebranded as Scotland’s Route sixty six back in 2015, it’s a region which guarantees sweeping ocean views, gold sand beaches, along with rugged mountains.
If you’re considering North Coast 500 Campervan Hire, or perhaps simply a part of it, you are in the correct spot. With this NC500 manual, you are able to prepare for the visit of yours and get excited about all of the sights you will go to see.
The North Coast 500 route
The NC500 route traces the best portion of mainland Scotland in a loop. This remote part of the nation is starting to be increasingly more common, particularly with lovers of the great outdoors and also road trippers.
It gets the title of its out of the length of the loop, that appears at only more than 500 miles, or maybe 516 miles (830km) to be precise. This particular scenic circuit is going to take you across six regions: Inverness shire, Caithness, Sutherland, Easter Ross, Wester Ross, and the Black Isle.
Most individuals are going to start in Inverness. Referred to as the “Capital of the Highlands”, it’s the very first point of entry of any North Coast 500 itinerary.
In case you go anti clockwise, you will stick to the east coast. This can help you move up the best northerly point of the mainland United Kingdom.
Because of this point, you will stick to the north coast, then simply down probably the west coast, passing by the renowned Torridon and Ullapool Hills. After Applecross, the final segment of the loop transports you to Inverness.
As it’s somewhat less scenic, numerous individuals ditch the final portion of the loop to pop over on the Isle of Skye. Others like the drive down probably the west coast, via Fort William and Glen Coe.
The North Coast 500 highlights
NC500 is not just a lovely road with great scenery, there’s also plenty to find out and lots to go to in the process! You are able to count on spectacular photography opportunities, scenic beaches, mountains for hiking, and much more.
You certainly won’t be weary on this route. The biggest challenge could be narrowing down the stops of yours to slip into the itinerary of yours!
Below we have compiled the favourite attractions of ours that we feel are really worth a visit:
The Black Isle and Chanonry Point
Just north of Inverness, you will find the Black Isle peninsula. It’s known for the lovely fields of its, vibrant food and beverage scene (including area craft beer!) and dolphin spotting. You read that right, dolphin spotting in Scotland!
Chanonry Point may be the popular area of the Black Isle in which you will have the opportunity to spot dolphins in the Moray Firth. You are very probable to spot dolphins on a rising tide, and that is aproximatelly one hour after tide that is low, and so check out the day tide times.
Dunrobin Castle
If you like going to grand homes & castles, you will need create a stop at Dunrobin Castle on the way north of yours. It’s been the house of the Dukes and Earls of Sutherland after the 13th century.
Dunrobin is situated on the east coast, halfway up toward John o’ Groats. A fun fact to learn is it’s probably the most northerly grand home of Scotland, and the biggest in the Northern Highlands.
The home is ready to accept visitors between October and April, like the museum, gardens as well as an everyday falconry display.
Dunnet Point and John O’Groats
John O’Groats is usually recognised as probably the most northerly point of mainland Britain and Scotland. In reality, Dunnet Point holds that title!
This’s a great place to base yourself and prevent some day trips. Nearby you can choose a stroll by the ocean cliffs and admire the popular Duncansby Stacks. You might like to go to Castle of Mey, previously owned by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother.
Smoo Cave
Among the highlights across the northern coast is Smoo Cave, which we suggest highly! Smoo Cave is the biggest & amp; most significant sea cave in Britain.
Entrance doesn’t cost anything, but there’s a 20 minute geological cave tour you are able to likewise book on site. It’s readily available between September and also April but is weather dependent.
Durness Beach
Should you drive across the northern portion of the NC500 on a lovely sunny day, you might wish to stop at the perfect beach of Durness. You will not think you are in Scotland, particularly with the turquoise waters!
Ardvreck Castle
On probably the west coast, you might wish to make a stop to examine the ruins of the 15th century Ardvreck Castle. The remains of the castle lie on a promontory that juts into Loch Assynt, giving a beautiful view with the environment.
Inverewe Garden
Next stick to the scenic road across the west coast towards Gairloch. Below you are going to come on the town of Poolewe in which you are able to check out the Inverewe Garden.
You are able to roam the forty nine acres of land which boast some 2,500 exotic flowers and plants. They flourish in Northern Scotland because of the warm currents of the Gulf Stream.
It is likewise an ideal location to try and spot Scotland’s Big five: red squirrels, otters, red deer, golden eagles and seals.
Ullapool
You will subsequently cross the curved Kylesku Bridge to reach the whitewashed and charming village of Ullapool. This’s another perfect stop, both because of the night or as a foundation for a couple of days of exploration of the spot.
This’s additionally in which you are able to get the ferry to go find the western Scottish isles. Sail to Stornoway to learn the Outer Hebrides.
It provides good dining options and a chance to engage in cultural events, like arts and music, drink and food, and history.
Corrieshalloch Gorge
Placed on the NC500, twelve miles east of Ullapool, you will find yet another one of the favourites of ours. We suggest visiting the breathtaking mile long, 61 metre (200 feet) deep Corrieshalloch Gorge as well as the Falls of Measach.
Below you are able to walk across the Victorian suspension bridge with the gorge! This’s additionally a great place to identify wildlife, particularly the numerous birds which soar high above. It’s a National Nature Reserve in recognition of the stunning natural beauty of its.
Glenmorangie Distillery
There are some whisky distilleries in the North Highlands, but one of the more popular may be Glenmorangie. Come possess a whisky tasting, a must do in Scotland. Additionally, there are local breweries and gin distilleries, if that is what you want!
Please note: We need to remind you that Scotland efficiently carries a zero tolerance policy with regards to driving and drinking. The Scottish Government site advises that “just one drink might place you through the legal limit for driving”.